What is a state of emergency? Here’s a look at why a governor or local official would call one, and where to find updates.
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency Dec. 26 due to the heavy snowfall that is expected throughout the state in the evening.
The National Weather Service implemented a Winter Storm Warning in North Jersey as hazardous driving conditions are expected with snow-covered roads.
“Please monitor official updates and remain off the roads unless necessary,” Way stated.
Forecasts predict 5 to 9 inches of snow to accumulate in counties such as Bergen, Hudson, Passaic, Morris, Essex, Sussex and Union counties.
When is it supposed to snow?
Snowfall is expected to start at around 5 p.m. on Friday evening, and continue overnight and into the morning hours of Saturday Dec. 27.
What is a state of emergency?
In New Jersey, the governor or acting governor declares a state of emergency in situations where a “disaster” has occurred or is forthcoming in the near future.
A state of emergency allows the state government to supply resources to municipalities to alleviate or prevent hardships caused by the event.
This declaration does not usually restrict the travel of people, but urges the public to take proper precautions, which in many cases is to stay inside.
Travel restrictions and other limitations may be imposed in specific areas for public safety, and public officials will send alerts through an Emergency Alert System, urgent press releases, DOT highway signs and other official messages like in social media posts.
A state of emergency in New Jersey does not mandate private workplaces to open, close or address compensation needs. The New Jersey government said it is up to private businesses to keep a dialogue with their employer on hours of operation and employment. If a federal disaster is declared, workers can be eligible for unemployment assistance.
Resources are deployed through the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. Government agencies such as the National Guard departments of Environmental Protection, Transportation and Health and State Police and private agencies such as American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, and the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster are usually called upon for state of emergency events.
If the disaster exceeds state resources, the state government can turn to federal assistance to further provide resources such as food, fuel and shelter as examples.
Earlier this month, Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for propane shortage in the state. Snow caused a state of emergency for five counties on Dec. 1.
Read more on burlingtoncountytimes
